University of Arizona Top Questions

When we, students, are in high school, the majority of us think that we have everything under control and that everything will run smooth all throughout college. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school student I would defenitely tell myself to take just 1 hour out of every day looking for scholarships like this very one and just filling them out, not with the mentality that you're going to win that specific award, but just to say that you actually tried looking for money and it really wasn't out there. However, I would garauntee myself that if I took that hour a day filling out random scholarships, I would win at least one. I would also tell myself that paying for college is not what it seems, it's not as simple as saying, yeah its just tuition and books and a few extra things, big deal my parents could help me pay for that. Paying for college and all the miscellaneous costs that come along with it is not as easy as it seems especially when you realize your parents can't help you like you thought they would.

Try to find out what you want to do as fast as possible. College is expensive. If you aren't sure what you want to do, at least try to pick an area of study that might lead you to a degree you might come across later. Otherwise you will have a lot of credits for nothing.

I would tell my high school self to really think about what I want to do when I graduate from college by talking to professionals in various careers and doing research. That would have saved me alot of time especially since many young people don't really know what they want to do for the rest of their lives, it is an important decision. Since I am a returning student who after 10 years of working and having a child who is now four, is back in college I would reassure my younger self that I have what it takes to succeed. While one should always try one's best, things happen and things change and I would tell myself not to worry so much and always be flexible, everything will work out in the end if you always practice honesty, kindness, and perserverance.

Don't worry too much about not knowing a lot about college - it'll all come to you easily enough. Things aren't going to change the way you picture it, but a lot of things about you and your environment will change, and many exciting opportunities are coming your way. Don't worry about doing the activities you've always done - just do what you find you enjoy. Don't be afraid to try new things. Remember where you've come from, and you'll appreciate it all more. There will be some parts about college that you won't like, particularly your living situation in the beginning, but you'll survive, and probably become a stronger person. Appreciate the friends you have now, because you won't have them for long. It's tough to stay in contact after high school. Just relax, because everything will be okay.

The advise I would give myself is that continuing your education is of great importance. Not only will I further my career status, but make new friends, and memories that would last a life time. Teachers at this teaching level are much more caring and there to help make the experience of reaching your goals attainable and achievable. This experience is one that I was afraid to tackle, but now I am greatful that I have.

The transition to college from high school is very tough. The classes are more rigorous and expect to have a heavy courseload at times. It may be frustrating and you might want to give up at times, but just stick through it and don't give up. The first year is probably the toughest because you have to learn how to adjust, but the key to succeeding your first year is time management and dedication. In high school, it was very easy to just say that you could save homework for later, but in college you need to realize that this is not possible. Make a schedule if you have to and just finish your work. The worst thing you can do in college is get behind, so at all costs, do not catch yourself getting behind in classes or it will catch up to you. One of the best things you can do is meet with your professors and attend study sessions and tutoring. There are plenty of opportunities on campus, just find what they are and use them. Professors are very helpful and they want you to succeed so put yourself out there!

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advice myself to apply for every single scholarship possible. College education is not cheap and every bit of scholarship really helps. I would also tell myself to stop spending money leisurely and save it for something more important such as books, rent payments, and groceries. Aside from being money smart, I would tell myself to be focused and stay focused because when I got to college, it was all about responsibilities and priorities. In high school, play time was allowed, almost anytime you wanted. On the contrary, play time in college is allowed but you have to choose wisely, it's books first then play later. I would've trained myself to start good habits like studying for exams and stop procrastinating. Lastly, I would spend more time with my family and friends since I won't be seeing them everyday.

I would tell my self to focus on math alot. Another point where I had a difficult time was in my transition from a jr. college to a university. I would tell my self to go straight to the university because of Adv standing, having proper classes to get into the college. Start at the UA so that you build a GPA and some sort of ground upon which to stand it will aslo help with the Advanced standing issue.

The most important lesson I learned at the University of Arizona thus far is the value of a balanced life. If I could advise my senior in highschool self, I would reccommend more involvement in extra curricular activities such as sports, further pursuit of academic achievements, and a strengthened commitment to learning. I would remind myself to pursue every possible achievement and to encourage others to do the same because every action plays a part in the large scheme of a person's life. I would tell myself to put a lot of effort into friendships because they greatly impact a person's happiness and, if maintained, help establish a network of contacts that is highly beneficial. I would also inform my younger self of the inner peace that comes with defining and acting upon one's beliefs. without beliefs to act upon, a person cannot make a confident descision. In conclusion, I would emphasize the value of balance in a person's life and that without social, academic, and spiritual outlets, a person cannot fully express themselves or live a truly full, healthy life.

Both semesters of my senior High School I knew absolutely what I wanted my future to look like, but the futures looked different each semester. Ever since I saw the movie "Free Willy" I knew that I wanted to work with Whales, preferably in the Pacific Northwest as a Marine Biologist, but that changed one day in December when I decided to become a Pharmacist instead of a Marine Biologist. If I could go back to the time where I was a High School Senior I would tell myself to never let go of my dreams, and it's okay if the dream changes, but never let go of your dreams. I would also tell myself that college will be no picknick and that I really need to focus on my dreams and follow my principles so as to reach that dream. One last thing would be on my mind during this visit: don't worry about friends during the first couple of weeks, they will eventually come to you. These advice would be beneficial to myself: never give up on dreams, focus on schoolwork, follow principles, and be yourself to find your friends.